Journal of pediatric orthopedics
Audio Summaries

Tether Breakage Across First-generation and Second-generation Vertebral Body Tethering Devices in Treating Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Jun 12, 2026

This study investigates the incidence of tether breakage in first-generation versus second-generation vertebral body tethering (VBT) devices used to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The analysis of 231 patients revealed that the overall rate of radiographic tether breakage was similar between the two generations (52% for first-generation and 44% for second-generation devices), although surgeon-reported breakage significantly decreased with the newer devices. The findings suggest that while the newer devices may have lower surgeon-observed breakage, the overall radiographic rates remain high and comparable to older models.

Radiographic Measurement of Lower Limb Length Discrepancy: A Comparison of Three Measurement Techniques for Assessing Total and Segmental Limb Lengths

Jun 12, 2026

The authors aimed to compare three radiographic measurement techniques for assessing total and segmental limb lengths in skeletally immature patients with limb length discrepancy (LLD). They found that while all three methods yielded comparable results, subtle differences were noted, particularly in relation to lower limb angular deformities. The study emphasizes the importance of consistently using a single measurement technique to minimize variability in LLD estimation.

Animal-Assisted Therapy Reduces Patient Reported Pain During Office Pin Removal Following Supracondylar Humerus Fracture Fixation: A Randomized Controlled Study

Jun 12, 2026

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) in reducing patient-reported pain and behavioral distress during office pin removal following supracondylar humerus fracture fixation in children aged 3 to 10 years. The results indicated that patients who received AAT experienced significantly lower pain and behavioral distress compared to those who did not, suggesting that AAT may serve as a beneficial non-pharmacologic intervention in pediatric orthopaedic procedures.

Nonsurgical and Surgical Management of Forearm Pronation Deformity in Patients 21 Years of Age or Younger with Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

Jun 3, 2026

This systematic review aims to identify clinical criteria for choosing between surgical and nonsurgical treatments for forearm pronation deformity in children with cerebral palsy, while also comparing functional outcomes and complication rates. The findings suggest that treatment should be tailored based on the severity of the deformity and the patient's functional goals, with surgical interventions providing more durable improvements in supination and function, especially in cases of static or progressive deformities. Nonsurgical options may be beneficial for younger patients with dynamic deformities, but their effects tend to diminish over time.

Art and Pediatric Orthopaedics: Bosch, Chronicler of Medieval Disability

Jun 3, 2026

The authors investigate how Hieronymus Bosch's artwork, specifically The Procession of Cripples, reflects the understanding and societal attitudes towards disability in late medieval Europe. Through a visual and historical analysis, they identify various musculoskeletal deformities and the use of early mobility aids depicted in the artwork, linking these observations to contemporary pediatric orthopaedic practices aimed at restoring function and independence in affected individuals. Ultimately, the study highlights the historical continuity in the objectives of pediatric orthopaedics.

Reconsidering the Interpretation of Migration Percentage in Cerebral Palsy: The Role of Age-related Skeletal Maturation

Jun 2, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the correlation between bony migration percentage (bMP) and a new measure, cartilaginous migration percentage (cMP), in children with cerebral palsy, considering the impact of age-related skeletal maturation. Their findings indicate a strong correlation between bMP and cMP, but highlight that bMP tends to overestimate cMP, particularly in younger children, suggesting that clinicians should account for this maturation-related bias when interpreting bMP in hip evaluations.